Anatomy & Physiology: The Unity of Form and Function, 7th Edition

Published by McGraw-Hill Education
ISBN 10: 0073403717
ISBN 13: 978-0-07340-371-7

Chapter 23 - Section 23.2 - Study Guide - Assess Your Learning Outcomes - Page 921: 6

Answer

The microscopic functional units of the kidney are called **nephrons**. Each kidney contains a vast number of nephrons, which are responsible for filtering blood, removing waste products, and regulating the balance of water and electrolytes in the body. The exact number of nephrons in each kidney can vary among individuals, but on average, a human kidney is estimated to contain around **one million nephrons**. These nephrons are distributed throughout the renal cortex and are the primary units responsible for the kidney's crucial functions in maintaining internal balance and producing urine.

Work Step by Step

The microscopic functional units of the kidney are called **nephrons**. Each kidney contains a vast number of nephrons, which are responsible for filtering blood, removing waste products, and regulating the balance of water and electrolytes in the body. The exact number of nephrons in each kidney can vary among individuals, but on average, a human kidney is estimated to contain around **one million nephrons**. These nephrons are distributed throughout the renal cortex and are the primary units responsible for the kidney's crucial functions in maintaining internal balance and producing urine.
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